Radnor Lake is a 1200 acre Class II Natural Area. Four unpaved trails wander through the woods surrounding the lake, where hikers can enjoy wilderness native to Middle Tennessee, including river otters, beavers, mink, muskrat, bobcat, coyote and the white-tailed deer.

Remembering Radnor’s Caretakers, Carrie and Jessie McElyea

Jessie McElyea worked for the railroad as a bridge painter prior to his life on Radnor Lake. The silver paint that was used gave him lead poisoning, and he was no longer able to continue in that position. A spillway operator job had just opened up due to a rattlesnake bite that killed the previous caretaker. McElyea was offered the post and lived in the boat house while they readied a home for his family. His wife and the kids moved in some time later.

Park Hours

Natural Area trails and parking lots are open daily from 6 a.m. until dark. Dark is defined as needing a flashlight to read the signs!

Visitor Center Hours

Open 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Closed noon-1:00pm.

Restrooms

Visitor Center restrooms open at 7 a.m.
East Parking Lot restrooms open at 6 a.m.

Rules and Regulations of a Natural Area

Radnor Lake is State Natural Area is set aside by the State of Tennessee for wildlife observation and protected under the State Natural Areas Preservation Act of 1971. To ensure the protection of the Radnor Lake ecosystem and provide ample wildlife observation for all visitors, the following rules and regulations are strictly enforced.

Groups & Special Needs Visitors

School Groups

Handicapped Accessibility

At no charge, two all-terrain wheelchairs (see pictures here) are available at the Visitor Center for use on the road, Spillway Trail and Lake Trail. To make your reservation for a wheelchair, please call 373-3467 24 hours in advance. Please download a liability form here, fill it out and bring it with you when you visit the park.

Hard of Hearing Visitors

EEO/AA/ADA

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation is committed to principles of equal opportunity, equal access, and affirmative action. Contact EEO/AA Coordinator at 888-867-7455 or the ADA Coordinator at 866-253-5827 for further information. Hearing-impaired callers may use the Tennessee Relay Service (800-848-0298).